subject: Most Misconceptions About Synthetic Grass [print this page] Most Misconceptions About Synthetic Grass
Though the modern synthetic grass industry has expanded and has begun to be adopted by many households, businesses, and parks, there are still many misconceptions that people hold. It is thus important to expose such misinformation and instead give accurate facts to consumers and the public. Uncovering myths and misconceptions can be the strongest tool to help consumers explore synthetic turf options for their own lawns. Some of the more commonplace misconceptions about artificial grass are as follows: 1. Synthetic grass is a luxury lawn surface. Though the up front investment of artificial grass may seem pricey, the quick return on investment within a few years allows individuals to save on high maintenance costs and water bills. With so many different synthetic turf products on the market, there are different types of grass to fit relatively any budget. 2. Synthetic grass absorbs and completely traps heat, making it almost impossible to cool down in hotter areas. When exposed to direct sunlight, the surface temperature of synthetic grass can increase moderately. When installed on concrete or other harder surfaces, synthetic grass does not increase in temperature more than these surfaces would themselves increase when exposed to heat. Studies have shown that artificial turf can decrease in temperature a total of 60 degrees just by being hosed down. Shade can also help to keep direct sunlight off of turf, preventing complete heat absorption. 3. Synthetic grass lawns are unsafe. Much controversy has surrounded synthetic grass and possible toxicity or unsafe conditions. Several studies have been done on the turf itself, backings, and infill. There is no conclusive evidence that any material used in synthetic grass is linked to any harmful or adverse effects on humans. It has not been proven that any types of sports injuries are accelerated or linked to the use of synthetic turf over real grass. 4. Synthetic grass is not realistic or comparable to actual real grass. With so many technological improvements on synthetic grass throughout the years, long gone are the days in which it feels prickly or spiky to the touch. With improvements in materials used to engineer synthetic turf, it both looks and feels very similar in texture and touch. 5. Homes with pets should not install synthetic grass. Though it is completely artificial, safety and comfort provide households with pets the utmost benefits. It is nontoxic, comfortable, and very durable for pets. It withstands pet waste and urine, as well as maintaining its strength even with rough play and exercise. 6. Synthetic grass is much like a carpet.Yes, artificial grass is installed on a flat surface, much like a carpet, however it is very different from a carpet. Infill is used to cushion the turf, as well as allow water to drain through quickly and easily. The backing is highly perforated, so unlike a carpet, all liquid can drain itself through vertically. 7. Synthetic grass decreases property value.This myth is often quite the opposite of what turf does to homes and properties. With its ability to significantly lower water costs and maintenance, it in fact adds value to most homes. It remains healthy and green throughout the entire year, unlike real grass lawns located on properties.
